Solar cells in developing countries: A United Nations perspective

Abstract

In the current situation characterized by the high price of petroleum and petroleum products, many countries are seriously looking at alternative sources of energy, including solar energy. Many developing countries, because of their geographic locations, are well placed to develop and utilize solar photovoltaic cells. A major advantage of solar energy technologies is that they are amenable to small-scale exploitation, thus matching the needs of rural populations in developing countries. The United Nations system, in response to an increasing number of requests by developing countries, has intensified its technical assistance programs for the development and utilization of solar cells. The response has varied, depending on the nature of the request and the organ or body of the United Nations system providing the assistance. The main areas of technical assistance have been in policy formulation, education and training, and strengthening and building institutions for research, development and application of solar energy technologies. These have been supplemented by conferences, symposia and seminars on selected topics.